Certified Personal Trainer 

Job Description: 

Help a diverse group of clients reach their unique fitness and wellness goals by designing and directing workout programs specific to their needs. Conduct fitness assessments to track client progress for increased self efficacy. Provide continued education to give clients the tools they need to succeed in achieving their goals. Promote healthy lifestyles inside and outside of the gym through holistic and individualized engagement. 

Location: Cary Street Gym & MCV Campus Recreation & Aquatic Center 

Supervisor: Tanika Santos MacSwain, Fitness Coordinator 

Starting Pay Rate: $17.00 per hour 

Required Licensure or Certification(s): 

● Nationally accredited Personal Training Certification from the NSCA, ACSM, ACE, NASM, or equivalent. 

● Current certification through the American Red Cross in CPR/AED for the Professional Rescuer with First Aid (or equivalent) OR the ability/willingness to obtain upon hire 

Other Requirements: 

● Ability to pass a background check 

Preferred Qualifications: 

● At least 1 year of experience 

● Knowledge of safety regarding various types of exercise equipment including free weights, selectorized weights, plate-loaded, and cardiovascular equipment 

● Exceptional customer service, communication, and decision making skills 

● Understanding of principles and application of instructing adults 

● Reliable, self-motivated, and ability to motivate others 

● Excellent oral and written communication skills 

● Strong passion for fitness and wellness

Primary Duties & Responsibilities: 

● Arrive early and prepared for every session 

● Conduct fitness assessments and other measurement data 

● Design and implement workout programs for one-on-one clients or buddy groups

● Maintain safety by educating clients on correct form and proper use of equipment

● Follow and enforce all rules, policies, and procedures of VCU Recreation and Well-Being 

Primary Duties & Responsibilities (continued): 

● Attend all in-service trainings and other mandatory meetings 

● Remain educated and up-to-date on new exercise knowledge and research 

● Respond to emergency situations including medical or facility issues 

● Be professional, enthusiastic, and approachable 

● Report facility and safety equipment issues 

● Other duties as assigned by the Fitness & Wellness Professional Staff 

Eligibility to Work 

● Trainers must be available to work at Cary Street Gym and MCV Campus Recreation and Aquatic Center 

● Trainers must be available to work occasional weekends 

● Trainers must be available to work occasional early mornings (before 8am) 

● Maintain a current Personal Training Certification from a nationally accredited organization

● Maintain a current American Red Cross in CPR/AED for the Professional Rescuer with First Aid certification (certifications are provided to RecWell employees at no additional cost to them)

● Trainers are required to attend staff meetings unless given expressed permission from their supervisor for an absence (notification of a conflict must be given at least 1 week prior to the meeting)

● Trainers are expected to maintain a minimum of 4 active clients to maintain employment. 

Virginia Commonwealth University is an equal opportunity/affirmative action employer. Women, minorities and persons with disabilities are encouraged to apply.

Salary Range:

Position Details:

Department: Recreation and Well-Being
Employment Type: H1 - Hourly
Restricted Status: No
FTE: 
Exemption Status: Non-Exempt

Contact Information:

Contact Name: Tanika Santos-MacSwain

Contact Email: santosmacst@vcu.edu

Contact Phone: (804) 827-6411